Travel + Leisure Names Red Carnation Hotels in the Top Family Hotels in Europe

Travel + Leisure Names Red Carnation Hotels in the Top Family Hotels in Europe
The Red Carnation Hotel Collection strives to provide families with extraordinary vacation experiences, and the award-winning collection of family-run boutique hotels announced that three of their luxurious properties have been named in Travel + Leisure's 2013 “World's Best Awards” as the “Top Family Hotels in Europe.”

It's no mystery why these fabulous hotels are top-rated for families. Each property understands that whether guests have little ones who see everything as a grand adventure, teenagers who prefer to act aloof and play it cool, or children that are somewhere in between, everyone wants to have an exceptional and unforgettable vacation. In addition to unparalleled service and splendid luxury, these hotels spoil children with a host of complimentary items, activities and thoughtful touches - keeping everyone thoroughly entertained without any added expense.

The Milestone Hotel, located across from Kensington Palace, is rated #1 of more than 1,000 London hotels on TripAdvisor.com, and many of these great reviews come from families. Special kids' amenities at The Milestone include a special nightly treat at turndown, colored pencils and coloring books, children's movies and various electronic games. The Milestone also offers a fabulous program for the more adventurous: the “Milestone Mini Experience,” which includes a supervised behind-the-scenes tour to different departments in the hotel. Children are given a small task to perform at the tour's conclusion, such as icing tea cakes or learning how to professionally fold napkins, and they receive their very own Milestone Certificate.

Exceptionally located opposite Buckingham Palace, The Rubens at the Palace overlooks the entrance to the Royal Mews with stunning views of the impressive pageantry of changing the Guard and the Royal Parks. Observing this is in itself is a popular kids' activity! The Director of Fun and Adventure acts as a Kids Concierge and helps guests plan the most exciting things to do in London. Kids receive a children's map of London with stickers to mark places they have visited, read a special Children's Newsletter highlighting fun things to see and do in London, and even enjoy a “Prince and Princesses Corner” menu that includes healthy options and spectacular desserts. The Rubens' Pastry Chefs hold workshops to teach children to decorate their own personal cupcakes, and kids then obtain a framed Master Chef Certificate and souvenir photograph to keep.

The magnificent Ashford Castle is the newest member of the Red Carnation family. This world-famous property celebrates family time by offering a wide variety of estate activities for every age group including horseback riding, bicycle hires, tennis, golf, hawk walks, lake fishing, boat cruises, chess and backgammon, and luncheon picnic baskets to enjoy on the gorgeous estate. Ashford Castle also provides kids' bathrobes, slippers, a special children's menu and exceptional Junior spa treatments.